EPIC’S TIME IS "NOW"
The "NOW 6" compilation, which debuts at # 1, and Ginuwine's "The Life," bowing at #4, lead a pack of nine Epic albums in this week's Top 50. Additionally, the label has the just-released soundtrack to the high-profile "Josie & The Pussycats" and upcoming top-priority releases from Travis (6/12) and Mandy Moore (6/19).
"If you look at where we were a couple of years ago and where we are now, it comes down to strong management and a diverse artist roster," said Epic Records Group Chairman David Glew. "And if you look at the new artists, I think Epic is going to have an incredible two-to-three-year spurt. We are focused and have a global vision."
"We've been very deliberate and strategic in strengthening our executive team, while taking great care in diversifying our roster," said label topper Polly Anthony. "If I had a crystal ball two years ago, I'd have seen this coming. This is not luck or a moment in time. It has been the plan and the goal since Dave [Glew] asked me to come on board and help him run the label."
Once known predominantly for rock acts like Pearl Jam, Korn, Rage Against The Machine and fast-breaking Mudvayne, Epic has expanded into other genres, with impressive results from the likes of Macy Gray, Jill Scott and Jennifer Lopez.
"A few years ago, there was no doubt we were the rock dogs of life," said Anthony. "We are proud to maintain that title, but now we can compete—and win—in every genre."
Said EVP David McPherson: "From an urban standpoint, there were already some great artists here, like Sade and Ginuwine, and they came through with great new albums. We've been able to maintain what we have and take it to a new level, while breaking new artists like 3LW, Jill Scott and Mandy Moore."
EVP/GM Steve Barnett added: "When you look at how broad our repertoire is, we often work outside the mainstream to allow our artists to follow their vision, and then the mainstream comes to them. That's what artist development is about at Epic."
Indeed, the success of the label's roster, particularly Macy Gray, helped build confidence and demonstrated Epic's willingness to stick with an artist over a long period of time.
"Dave and Polly and the team they've put together are committed to a high level of acquiring new artists and sticking with them, like we did with Macy Gray," said McPherson. "That success story was a huge turning point for this company, and Polly deserves a lot of credit. She put her career on the line, and the company has been reinvigorated by David and Polly's leadership."
